Friends of the Kaw Day of Giving

Tuesday, April 22, 2025 – Give here!

We are excited about our Earth Day of Giving on Tuesday, April 22, 2025.

This is a special opportunity for all of us – near and far – to unite in support of Friends of the Kaw and the Kansas River.

Thanks to the generosity of our Board of Directors and anonymous donors, every donation now through April 22, 2025, will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $6,000.

When we all give a little, we make a great impact together!

Q & A about Day of Giving

What is Day of Giving?

An online and social media fundraising event. We host Earth Day of Giving each April 22 in honor of Earth Day, and a Fall Day of Giving in September.

Each Day of Giving is crucial to providing the necessary resources to carry out our mission for the Kansas River. Friends of the Kaw is a non-governmental public advocate. Funding for our mission comes from the generosity of donors like you, and through grant programs for specific projects.

What is a Matching Gift Challenge?

A matching gift challenge is when a donor or group of donors offers to match donations made by others, usually for a limited time or up to a set amount. So, if you donate $50, the matching donor(s) will also give $50, doubling your impact.

How do I donate?

Donate at this link: Give to Friends of the Kaw

Or mail a check with “Day of Giving” in the memo line:

     Friends of the Kaw

     P.O. Box 1612

     Lawrence, KS 66044

I want to give through my IRA

I want to donate stock

If you plan to give through your IRA or Donor-Advised Fund, we know these e gifts take time to process. Please email Jane Liebert at jane.liebert@kansasriver.org so we can include your donation in our totals.

Is my gift tax-deductible?

Yes! You will receive a tax receipt via email if you give online or through the mail.

What does my gift support?

We maintain ongoing efforts throughout the year. Your support funds our general operating needs, which is one of the most powerful gifts you can give. You are investing in the day-to-day strength and stability of our work, allowing us to plan, execute, and respond quickly to a variety of needs and sustain the programs and services that make a difference every single day.

Examples include:

River Cleanups: Organizing on-land and in-river cleanups is no small task. From trash bags and gloves to buckets, tools, and our trusty Jon boat, we bring the gear needed to tackle even the toughest debris. From supplies to disposal fees, every piece of the process fuels our mission for a healthier Kansas River – one cleanup at a time.

Advocacy: We maintain ongoing efforts throughout the year to be on the frontlines of advocacy efforts impacting the Kansas River. Whether it’s speaking at city commission meetings, advocating for change at the statehouse, or working directly with local stakeholders, we’re there to protect and preserve the Kansas River.

Protection: We work year-round to monitor and protect the health of the Kansas River. Whether by boat or on foot, we conduct water quality testing, report illegal dumping, and investigate possible pollution events. We also monitor wildlife and habitats to ensure the river remains a thriving sustainable resource for both nature and the 950,000 Kansans who depend upon the Kansas River as a drinking source.

Educational Paddles: Education is at the heart of protecting the Kansas River. These guided experiences give participants the chance to explore the river firsthand and pause mid-journey on a sandbar for an engaging educational talk. We’ve noticed a powerful pattern: what begins as a simple desire to paddle with friends often transforms into something more meaningful – a genuine connection to the river. And that’s exactly what we aim for. When people connect with the river, they’re far more likely to care about its future and join us in protecting it.

Educating Future River Stewards: We teach students in grades 6–12 essential topics like water quality, watersheds, stormwater runoff, and how these systems connect. Engaging, hands-on lessons are led by Friends of the Kaw staff, with all supplies and equipment provided. The program is made possible in part through your donations as well as support from national and local environmental education grants and contracts.